The Pegwell Piccolo Unveiling the Small Copper's Coastal Charm


 

In the enchanting world of butterflies, the small copper stands out, living up to its name in both colour and size. From April onwards, keep your eyes peeled for this vibrant creature in dry, sun-kissed habitats such as heathland, downland, woodland, and even the picturesque Pegwell Bay.

Species Insight

  • Statistics: Wingspan ranges from 2.6 to 3.6cm
  • Conservation Status: Common
  • Season: April to October

Discovering the Small Copper

The small copper is a delightful sight during the summer months, fluttering about from April to October. Male small coppers are quite territorial, often found basking on bare ground or rocks, patiently waiting for females. Occasionally, they'll chase off intruding insects. As adults, they feed on ragwort and thistles, while their caterpillars prefer common sorrel and sheep's sorrel. Look for them in dry, sunny habitats like heathland, woodland edges, waste ground, and downland, including the scenic area of Pegwell Bay.

Identification Tips

Spotting a small copper is a treat for the eyes. Its forewings boast a brilliant orange hue adorned with dark brown spots and a thick, dark brown margin. Meanwhile, its hindwings are dark brown with striking orange bands.

Distribution and Habitats

This charming butterfly is widespread and can be found in various habitats, including grassland, heathland, freshwater areas, farmland, coastal regions, wetlands, towns, gardens, and the beautiful Pegwell Bay.

Fascinating Trivia

Did you know that the large copper, a relative of the small copper, went extinct in the UK over 150 years ago due to the draining of English fenland?

Globally, the large copper is categorized as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Efforts have been made to reintroduce the species to the UK, but success has been limited thus far.

Keep an eye out for this petite wonder of nature as it flutters gracefully through our landscapes, adding a burst of colour to our surroundings.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Preserving Biodiversity Highland Cattle's Role in Conservation at Pegwell Bay

Image
  Delving into the realm of Highland cattle reveals not just a breed of livestock, but guardians of biodiversity. With their rugged resilience and captivating charm, these medium-sized bovines have etched a profound legacy in agricultural history, particularly in habitat conservation efforts at Pegwell Bay. Highland cattle are renowned for their longevity and friendly disposition, traits that complement their remarkable adaptability to diverse environments. Their presence at Pegwell Bay serves a dual purpose: not only do they contribute to the preservation of the landscape's natural beauty, but they also actively manage the habitat to foster biodiversity. Grazing on a diverse array of vegetation, Highland cattle demonstrate an impressive ability to thrive on the varied flora of Pegwell Bay. Their dietary preferences, coupled with their robust constitution, play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Dating back over 800 years, Highland cattle boast a r...
Read more

The Fulmar A Seabird of Resilience and Mystery in Pegwell Bay

Image
  Pegwell Bay, a coastal haven known for its diverse avian residents, shares a special relationship with the robust Fulmar. Nestled within the rich tapestry of Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and the coasts of southwest and northeast England, this seabird embodies resilience and adaptability. Originally confined to St Kilda and a solitary island off Iceland's coast, the Fulmar's breeding history is a tale of expansion and conquest. Over the past two and a half centuries, their populations have burgeoned, colonizing new territories across Iceland, Britain, Ireland, northwest France, and sections of Norway. However, the precise reasons for this remarkable expansion remain shrouded in mystery. Young Fulmars embark on a nomadic journey, spending their formative years at sea before returning to coastal colonies for breeding. Not until they reach the age of nine, do they attain sexual maturity and partake in the breeding rituals. Their presence graces the rugged coastlines of Scotland, Wal...
Read more

Unveiling the Golden Charm of Meadow Buttercups A Bright Beacon in Pegwell Bay and Beyond

Image
  In the serene landscape of Pegwell Bay and its surrounding areas, there's a vibrant presence that catches the eye - the Meadow Buttercup. This delightful perennial is not just a casual bystander in the meadows and pastures; it's a ubiquitous figure, gracing parks, gardens, and even woodland edges with its golden allure. As if drawn by its charm, one cannot help but notice the dazzling yellow meadows it creates, especially when the sun casts its warm glow upon them. Identifying the Meadow Buttercup is a delightful task. Its yellow flowers, approximately 2cm in diameter, boast five shiny petals that beckon admirers. Its rounded leaves, divided into three to seven lobes, are a distinct feature, setting it apart from its creeping counterpart. Unlike the Creeping Buttercup, it does not spread through runners, emphasizing its unique identity. Widespread in distribution, the Meadow Buttercup is a traveller, making its home in various habitats. Whether it's the lush grasslands, t...
Read more